Major Gifts Officer

Job Summary

Reporting to the Chief Development and Marketing Officer, the Major Gifts Officer is responsible for generating new and increased major gifts that support the Federation and its programs, matching the philanthropic interests of identified donors with the mission and goals of Federation. These gifts, ranging from five to six figures, will support annual and additional campaigns, as well as legacy giving initiatives and corporate partnerships. The officer will play a pivotal role in advancing the Federation’s mission by developing meaningful relationships with donors and fostering sustained engagement.

The Major Gifts Officer will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major and corporate gifts prospects by initiating, maintaining, and growing these relationships to maximize their long-term value and benefit to Federation. The Major Gifts Officer will communicate with and steward donors throughout the year developing creative opportunities to acknowledge their support and will maintain a portfolio of prospects to solicit current gifts for the Annual Campaign and Additional Giving Opportunities.

Job Responsibilities and Essential Functions

• Be a thought partner with CDMO and key lay leadership to develop short term and long-term strategies for Federation fundraising growth and success.
• Participate in the implementation of the Federation’s development plan.
• Solicit and secure major gifts from individual donors and corporations, focusing on five to six figure contributions.
• Manage additional fundraising campaigns to enhance core funding efforts.
• Maintain a portfolio of major gifts individuals and sustain a program of donor stewardship activities, cultivating strong and lasting relationships.
• Secure major gifts for annual campaigns, additional campaigns, endowments, and corporate partnerships.
• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions and gift commitments and sustain a program of major donor stewardship activities.
• Identify opportunities for Major Gifts inclusive of all opportunities available to Federation donors and develop a pipeline for future major gift prospects.
• Write personalized acknowledgement letters as needed to enhance relationships with major donors. Write or assist in drafting proposals, newsletters, brochures, pamphlets, and other materials, as necessary.
• Keep abreast of institutional and communal priorities and programs.
• Participate in special events, recognition, and stewardship programs as appropriate.
• Assist with publicity arrangements on important gifts, programs, accomplishments, or events.
• Support and enhance Federation’s presence with its many constituencies, promoting a collaborative, donor focused approach to development.
• Articulate the value of supporting the goals and mission of JFGC, as well as priority programs.
• Assist in all capacities as may be appropriate on behalf of Federation development (community building and fundraising) efforts.

Preferred Education

Bachelor’s Degree required, master’s degree preferred.

Required Work Experience

Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in major gift solicitation and stewardship of major donors.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Ability to produce tangible fundraising results in a goal-oriented environment, including successful track record of closing current and/or deferred major gifts in the five and six figure range.
• Excellent research, writing, and interpersonal communication skills with a high level of emotional intelligence.
• The intelligence, maturity, and sound judgement necessary for interacting with major donor prospects, trustees, and staff.
• Ability to empathize with donors, clearly communicate our organization's mission, and effortlessly move from high-level strategic thinking to frontline solicitation.
• An understanding of and ability to articulate the accomplishments and goals of a complex organization.
• Ability to mentor other fundraising staff.
• Decision-maker who is comfortable with analytics and data management.
• Significant experience in management of membership or volunteer operations and working with volunteer committees.
• Experience in planning and executing events.
• First-hand knowledge of the Jewish community, its customs and practices.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Highly organized and detail oriented. Proven ability to meet multiple deadlines and balance numerous projects simultaneously.
• Ability to handle confidential financial and personal information with discretion and sensitivity.

Other Job-Related Requirements

• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required.
• This position must be based in the greater Charlotte area.
• Preference will be given to candidates with prior experience working for Jewish organizations, deep knowledge of Judaism, Jewish culture and traditions, and a personal commitment to Jewish values.

How We Care For YOU

Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte proudly offers a competitive compensation and benefits package which includes:

• Four Weeks of Paid Time Off, Days Off for Jewish Holy Days, and Early Closure for Shabbat
• Generous Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Benefits
• 401k Plan with an Employer Contribution and Match
• Professional Development and Skill Building Opportunities
• Flexible and Hybrid Work Environment
• Shalom Park Discounts for JCC Membership and Shalom Park Schools
• Free and Accessible Parking

Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

More information about our organization is available at

How to Apply

Interested candidates should direct inquiries, resumes, and cover letters to:

Sam Bernstein, Chief Development & Marketing Officer